Industry /
February 23, 2022

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) update from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

By Carl Borleis

Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence

The following was adopted from information received by the TCOE from the FMCSA.  It further clarifies the expected steps involved in getting a CDL based on the new ELDT regulations.  Should you have any questions about this regulation, other regulations related to truck driving, or help with educational resources for Truck Driver Training, please do not hesitate to contact Carl Borleis ([email protected]).  He would be happy to help.

Effective February 7, 2022, there are three (3) distinctive steps to obtain a Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL)   

Step #1: Knowledge Testing

  • Minnesota CDL Manual
  • Knowledge Tests
    • An individual will take one or more CDL knowledge tests, described in Minnesota State CDL manual, depending on class of license and endorsements
    • Note: Minnesota allows one attempt for each knowledge test once per day (see attached CDL manual) 
  • Knowledge Testing chart
    • It will determine which knowledge test(s) are needed when obtaining or upgrading your CDL (see manual)

Knowledge tests required

CLP Type:General KnowledgeAir BrakeCombinationPassengerSchool BusTanker
Class-A:XXX  X
Class-B:XX   X
Class-B: 
With Passenger Endorsement		XX X  
Class-B:
With Passenger and School Bus Endorsement		XX XX 
       

Upon successful completion of Knowledge Testing: A driver will have obtained the Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) 

Step #2: Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

“NEW” Federally Mandated Requirement Effective February 7, 2022

  • The Driver will need to enroll in an approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Program 
    • For anyone seeking a Class A or Class B CDL,
    • Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, or
    • Anyone obtaining a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement , for the first time. 
  • How to enroll
    • A driver will access the Training Provider Registry (TRP) to locate an approved training provider
  • Complete ELDT Training
    • Two primary sections – see Part 380
      • Classroom Theory Training, and  
      • Behind-the Wheel (BTW) training.    

Step #3: Skills Test

  • Upon successful completion of the ELDT program, which includes theory and behind-the-wheel training, a driver must successfully pass a skills test examination
  • The Skills Test Examination
    • Is broken into three phases
      • The pre-trip inspection
      • The basic control skills
      • The road test.

You must take all three (3) tests in a representative vehicle for which you wish to be licensed

Upon successful completion a driver will be able to apply for a Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL) 

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